Protein shakes can be highly beneficial to individuals looking to supplement their diet, build muscle, or garner other wellness benefits. These drinks consist of protein powder mixed with a variety of fruits, juices, and more delicious ingredients. However, if you are not careful, protein shakes could damage your smile in multiple ways.
You do not have to give up this beverage entirely though. With proper care and preparation, you can keep your smile healthy as you consume a protein drink. Read on to find actions you can take to maintain good oral health while you continue to enjoy protein shakes.
Remove Gritty Build-Up on Your Teeth
Do you notice a gritty residue left on your teeth after you drink a protein shake? These beverages contain protein powder, which can cling to the surface of your teeth. If you can feel the grit on your smile, then it could pose a threat to your dental health.
Lingering food particles will begin to decay in your mouth where they encourage bacterial spread. This will erode the enamel of your teeth, weakening them and making them vulnerable to tooth decay and other dental dangers. So if you do feel a gritty film on your teeth, this is a sign that dental erosion could take place.
Rinse your mouth by drinking water after you consume a protein shake. This can get rid of the gritty build-up, which will prevent dental erosion. If possible, completing your oral hygiene regimen and brushing away lingering build-up from the shake will provide even more thorough preventive care for your smile.
Avoid High Sugar Content
To enhance the flavor of these beverages, many protein shakes will include a large amount of sugar. However, sugar is famously harmful to your teeth. Sugar becomes acidic when it reacts with saliva, and the resulting acid could deteriorate your dental structure. Then you could face a greater risk of cavities.
Keep your teeth strong by steering clear of added sugar, including in your protein shakes. Check the label of store-bought protein shakes to ensure they do not have a high sugar content.
If you make your own drinks, consider alternative ingredients that can alter the flavor of your shake rather than sugar. For instance, vanilla or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can make your protein shake taste great.
Continue Good Dental Care
You can better resist potential dental damage from protein shakes and other items when your mouth has a strong, healthy foundation. You can keep your teeth and gums in good shape with proper preventative dental care, including oral hygiene.
Brush your teeth at least twice each day and floss daily to remove harmful build-up before they can weaken your smile. Proper technique and a consistent schedule are crucial to maximize the routine’s ability to protect your oral health.
Good oral hygiene will also include professional dental cleanings. Make sure you attend routine dental check-ups so that your dentist can prevent dental problems and diagnose issues before they progress into serious concerns.